ESSENTIAL Energy has provided six local heroes and grassroots organisations which support communities with funding through its Community Choices Program.

In May, Essential Energy asked the community to help decide which local organisations needed a bit of ‘empowering.’

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The popular program saw 20% more votes this year compared with 2020, showing locals are eager to support these groups.

This year Essential Energy was able to provide $175,000 in support right across New South Wales and parts of southern Queensland.

Essential Energy’s Community Relations Manager North Coast, Raelene Myers said, “We’re thrilled with this opportunity to give back to the communities that we live and work in with our third annual Community Choices program, as we’ve seen the difference a little extra funding can make.

“Locally, we’ve been able to support organisations like Coffs Harbour Snappers Rugby Union Football Club and Souths Netball Club who give so much back to the community,” Raelene said.

“Pleasingly, 75% of nominations were from new groups who heard about the program and decided to put their requests for extra support to the wider community.”

The following local organisations have been supported by Essential Energy’s 2021 Community Choices program.

• Coffs Harbour Snappers Rugby Union Football Club Inc – $2,500
• Souths Netball Club – $2,000
• Coffs Coast Bodyboarding Association – $1,500
• South Coffs Community Garden Incorporated – $1,000
• Woolgoolga Art Group Inc – $900
• Coffs City United Football Club Incorporated – $600

Raelene acknowledged that many areas have been doing it tough this year due to the continuing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and major flooding in some areas.

“The last 12 months have been challenging for so many of the communities across our footprint. “We understand how important these organisations within these communities are and we hope this Community Choices funding helps them continue to support our customers in these areas.” Raelene said.

The entire process, from nominating to voting, was completed online, meaning people could participate while still complying with COVID-19 restrictions.

The program has supported a total of 120 community groups in 2021.

For a full list of grant recipients, please visit essentialenergy.com.au/choices.